Spanish Chilled Melon Soup (Sopa de Melón)

Introduction

Spanish Chilled Melon Soup, or Sopa de Melón, is a refreshing and delightful dish perfect for hot summer days. This traditional Spanish soup combines the sweetness of ripe melon with a hint of tangy citrus and a touch of mint, creating a beautifully balanced and flavorful cold soup. Served chilled, it’s a fantastic starter or light meal that will truly impress your guests.

Ingredients

– 1 ripe cantaloupe melon, peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 1 cup fresh orange juice
– Zest of 1 orange
– 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, plus extra for garnish
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: prosciutto slices for serving

Directions

1. In a blender, combine the cubed cantaloupe melon, fresh orange juice, orange zest, fresh lime juice, honey, mint leaves, and a pinch of salt.

2. Blend the mixture until smooth and well combined, ensuring there are no lumps remaining.

3. Taste the soup and adjust the sweetness or acidity to your liking by adding more honey or lime juice if needed.

4. Transfer the soup to a large bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to chill and allow the flavors to meld together.

5. Once chilled, give the soup a good stir and taste again for any final seasoning adjustments.

6. To serve, ladle the chilled melon soup into bowls and garnish with fresh mint leaves. For an added touch, serve with a side of thinly sliced prosciutto for a delightful contrast in flavors.

7. Enjoy this Spanish Chilled Melon Soup on a warm summer day as a starter or light meal to experience a burst of refreshing flavors in every spoonful.

FAQ About Spanish Chilled Melon Soup (Sopa de Melón)

What is Spanish Chilled Melon Soup?

Spanish Chilled Melon Soup, also known as Sopa de Melón, is a refreshing summer soup originating from Spain. It is typically made with ripe honeydew or cantaloupe melon blended with ingredients like cucumber, mint, lime juice, and a hint of spices. This cold soup is perfect for hot days and is served chilled.

Is Spanish Chilled Melon Soup easy to make?

Yes, Spanish Chilled Melon Soup is easy to make. It involves simple steps like blending the melon with other ingredients, chilling the mixture, and serving it cold. It’s a quick and effortless recipe that can be prepared ahead of time for a convenient and refreshing meal.

What are the key ingredients in Spanish Chilled Melon Soup?

The main ingredients in Spanish Chilled Melon Soup include ripe melon (honeydew or cantaloupe), cucumber, mint leaves, lime juice, a touch of honey for sweetness, a pinch of salt, and sometimes a splash of white wine or vinegar. These ingredients come together to create a harmonious blend of flavors in this chilled soup.

Can Spanish Chilled Melon Soup be customized?

A